Deciding what kind of Washington, DC home to purchase is your second critical decision after location. If you’re married, you and your spouse must determine jointly what you want in a new home.

If you’re living in a home you intend to sell, you’ll want to discuss what you like and dislike about your current residence. Make a list of the things you want in a new home and the things you don’t want. If you have children, consider their preferences as well.

If you’re a senior or planning to retire, your decisions about a home may be determined by your (and your spouse’s) health, ability to do maintenance, retirement income, debt, savings, equity in your current residence, health facilities and climate.

And if you’re a young, single homebuyer, your preferences may lean more toward resale value and the glamour of a home, rather than the nuts and bolts.

Here is a list of priorities to consider:

• Number of Bedrooms and Bathrooms. How many children; how old?


• Kitchen/Family Room or Kitchen/Breakfast Room and separate Den.


• Formal Living Room and/or Dining Room. Do you entertain a lot?


• Garage or Carport. For storing junk or cars and tools?


• Size of Lot—bigger or smaller? More or less gardening and lawn?


• Architecture. Will your French Provincial furniture look okay in an open Modern design home?


• Amenities. Swimming Pool? Media Room? Home Office? Fireplace?